Researchers demonstrate how changing the stem cell response to inflammation may reverse periodontal disease

[Northerner]

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection that affects nearly 50 percent of Americans aged 30 years and older. If left unchecked, periodontal disease can destroy the jawbone and lead to tooth loss. The disease is also associated with higher risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

The current treatment for periodontal disease involves opening the infected gum flaps and adding bone grafts to strengthen the teeth. But in new research published recently in the journal Frontiers in Immunology, Forsyth Institute scientists have discovered that a specific type of molecule may stimulate stem cells to regenerate, reversing the inflammation caused by periodontal disease. This finding could lead to the development of new therapeutics to treat a variety of systemic diseases that are characterized by inflammation in the body.

Researchers demonstrate how changing the stem cell response to inflammation may reverse periodontal disease

Scientists have discovered that a specific type of molecule may stimulate stem cells to regenerate, reversing the inflammation caused by periodontal disease.

www.sciencedaily.com

 

[trophywench]

I hope it works - having lost a lot of teeth and jawbone.

 

[Northerner]

Although not gum disease, my first indication that my blood sugars were out of control came about 4 months prior to my diagnosis when I developed an abscess on a tooth that I had had root filled ten years previously. The dentist said there must have been a tiny dormant bit of infected nerve left behind that the sugar-rich environment encouraged back to life I had the tooth removed, so far the only one I have lost.

 

[SueEK]

This is very interesting but probably no good for my lifetime. I also have gum disease and the periodontist wants me to have further treatment that I simply can’t afford and it is not available on the NHS. Good that science is looking into this though.